Page 1 of Attachment C 
INTRODUCTION 
The public debate over genetic engineering has focused on the pos- 
sible hazards of genetically modified microorganisms, potential 
health hazards to workers involved with industrial application of 
recombinant DNA techniques, and the utilitarian prospects of such 
technology. Several risk assessment programs designed to investigate 
some of the characteristics of proposed host-vector systems which 
might effect hazard potential will be conducted by interested scien- 
tists. Likewise, the benefits from recombinant DNA technology are 
being as vigorously promoted. The National Institute for Occupational 
Safety and Health (NIOSH) is responsible for conducting research, 
recommending occupational safety and health standards, providing 
technical assistance to workers and employers, and conducting train- 
ing and educational programs. NIOSH' s responsibility extends to both 
existing and emerging technologies which might impact on worker 
health and safety. Thus, NIOSH is evaluating the potential occupa- 
tional hazards involved with recombinant DNA technology. 
This research effort was prompted by the anticipated surge of recom- 
binant DNA techniques in various industrial processes. Genetic en- 
gineering technology may be utilized in various manufacturing pro- 
cesses in the areas of agriculture, organic chemicals, energy, food 
processing, and pharmaceuticals. This potential growth and the pos- 
sibility of uncharacterized occupational exposures indicate the nec- 
essity for careful evaluations of health risks. NIOSH is accustomed 
to examining new technologies for potential occupational hazards and 
developing recommendations for safeguarding the workers health. Im- 
plementation of safeguards and protective engineering controls early 
in the growth of an industry can only minimize human suffering and 
avoid expensive retrofitting of production systems. 
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Public Law 91- 
596, NIOSH was mandated and authorized to conduct research and health 
studies. Specifically, section 20(a)7 states that NIOSH shall conduct 
and publish industry-wide studies of the effects of chronic or low 
level exposure to industrial materials, processes, and stresses on 
the potential for illness, disease, or loss of functional capacity. 
Thus this research is pursuant to the development of health standards 
applicable to a broad range of occupational environments. In com- 
pliance with this mandate, the Industry-Wide Studies Branch of the 
Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations and Field Studies is 
conducting a research study to assess the potential occupational haz- 
ards in research and the commercial application of recombinant DNA 
technology . 
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